Multi-Layer Open-Hole Wellbore Seal Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sealing methods, such as packers, are insufficient for maintaining pressure isolation in open-hole wellbores during hydraulic fracturing and other wellbore operations, as they fail to provide reliable multi-layered seals necessary for these techniques.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer sealing assembly is deployed downhole, comprising expandable sealing elements and a sealing mixture, which forms multiple layers of seals upon receiving differential pressure, using a combination of expandable sealing elements and a cementitious or resin-like sealing mixture retained within a container housing, with a retaining mechanism to maintain the seal without constant pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a packer is used to seal the open-hole wellbore, then the wellbore can be sealed, but the seal is insufficient for hydraulic fracturing and other wellbore operations requiring multiple sealing layers
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing assembly is divided into multiple independent sealing elements (first sealing element, second sealing element, third sealing element) that can be deployed separately and independently. Each sealing element can form an individual seal, allowing the system to provide multiple sealing layers necessary for hydraulic fracturing and other wellbore operations while maintaining the ability to seal the wellbore effectively.
2Reliability
If multiple sealing elements are deployed, then multiple pressure-isolated regions can be formed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing elements are deployed in a nested sequence where the first sealing element is positioned first, followed by the second sealing element nested within or adjacent to it, and the third sealing element nested within or adjacent to the second. This nested deployment strategy allows multiple sealing elements to be accommodated in a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to form multiple pressure-isolated regions.
3Device complexity
If a single packer is used, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot provide sufficient sealing for hydraulic fracturing operations
Solution Approach 1:
Different sealing elements are positioned at different locations within the wellbore to address specific local sealing requirements. The first sealing element seals one region, the second sealing element seals another region, and the third sealing element seals a third region. This localized sealing approach provides the adaptability and versatility needed for hydraulic fracturing operations while keeping each individual sealing element relatively simple in design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multi-layer sealing assembly effectively pressure-seals the open-hole wellbore, allowing for reliable performance of wellbore operations like hydraulic fracturing by forming and retaining multiple pressure-isolated regions, enhancing the efficiency and stability of wellbore operations.
Implementation Method 1
a sealing mixture between the at least two expandable sealing elements. The sealing mixture may include cementitious material, resin-like material, a combination thereof
Implementation Method 2
a sealing mixture between the at least two expandable sealing elements. The sealing mixture may include cementitious material, resin-like material, a combination thereof
Implementation Method 3
The at least two expandable sealing elements may include rubber, an expandable polymeric material, or other suitable expandable material
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple layers of a seal can be formed to pressure-seal an open-hole wellbore in a subterranean formation. The seal can include at least one element and a sealing mixture between the element and a container housing for pressure sealing the open-hole wellbore between the element and the container housing and for providing multiple layers of seal in the open-hole wellbore. The seal can be retained by the sealing mixture subsequent to the sealing mixture being released.